When I first moved to Terrace I quickly noticed there were no animal rescue organizations to speak of. This is the first time I have lived somewhere that didn't at least have an SPCA. Even Kitimat has a rescue organization. Well that is about to change.

Alicia Jamieson along with Cam and Todd Bellamy and many others, have spent countless hours and money to help dogs in the Terrace area. The proposed name of the fledgling organization is "Northern Animal Rescue"

Cam and Todd have now taken over from Alicia's initial concept, and have been working as representatives of Dogs Deserve Better. They have been raising funds to place rescued dogs in foster care, pay for their veterinary expenses and to transport them to approved homes in and out of the area.

This weekend it all came to fruition at the Vigil to remember the Sled Dogs of BC. There was an excellent turn-out of community members (dogs welcome of course), local business and our own Robin Austin who supports the formation of a desperately needed dog rescue in Terrace.

Robin Austin is passionate about this issue and came out to participate in this memorial; bringing his little dog Maggie May. Robin supports the concept of citizens lobbying for improved animal welfare laws which are part of the criminal code of Canada. He encourages everyone to help facilitate positive change on behalf of animals in our area.

One way to make an immediate difference in the community of Terrace is to support Cam and Todd in forming their new animal rescue organization: Northern Animal Rescue. You can donate bags of dog food, your time and services, make cash donations to help pay for the massive veterinary bills that are involved in saving these animals, and even open your home to foster a little soul who has been saved.

You can contact Cam and find out how to become a founding member of Northern Animal Rescue. Even young people like Kyra Pettit and her gramma Penny have something to give just by showing up to the vigil today.

After the moment of silence to remember the Sled Dogs of Whistler; Debbie Helsdon played "Taps" on her trumpet and I couldn't help but feel proud of my community for finally doing something about the problem of neglected and abused dogs. It reminded me that just like it takes a whole community to raise a child; it takes a whole community to save a dog...

Cam and Todd Bellamy would like to thank those who helped put this vigil together. The event raised almost $600 dollars to help save dogs. For information about fostering or donating contact Cam Bellamy at 250-638-8868